NetOne CEO placed on forced leave: Raphael Mushanawani has been put on forced leave, just months after being cleared of fraud charges.
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Previous fraud allegations: The charges involved unapproved procurement contracts and an upgrade project for the SAGE 1000 ERP system, valued at over US$1.2 million.
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Acting CEO appointed: Chief Technical Officer Chris Muchechemera (formerly digital innovation director at TelOne) is now acting in Mushanawani’s position.
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Root causes of the forced leave: The situation stems from a combination of dodgy commercial deals and political loyalty conflicts, against the backdrop of a company long dogged by corruption.
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Loyalty dispute: Mushanawani remains loyal to former ICT Minister Jenfan Muswere, rather than his current minister, Tatenda Mavetera—creating significant friction.
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Muswere’s role in his appointment: Muswere helped Mushanawani secure his NetOne CEO position in 2021, during Muswere’s tenure as ICT Minister (2019–2023).
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Additional board appointment: In 2023, after Muswere became Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, he also appointed Mushanawani to the Zimpapers board.
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Recent ministerial change: Muswere was reassigned to the Ministry of Skills Audit and Development in February 2026, but Mushanawani’s continued loyalty to him over Minister Mavetera has fueled ongoing tensions.
Timeline
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2019 – 2023: Jenfan Muswere serves as Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services.
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2021: Muswere appoints Raphael Mushanawani as CEO of NetOne.
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2023: Muswere becomes Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services; appoints Mushanawani to the Zimpapers board.
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Months prior to current date (~early–mid 2026): Mushanawani is officially cleared of the SAGE 1000 ERP fraud charges.
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February 2026: Muswere is reassigned to the Ministry of Skills Audit and Development.
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Current (July 2026): Mushanawani is placed on forced leave; Chris Muchechemera takes over as acting CEO amid friction with current minister Tatenda Mavetera and ongoing shady commercial deals.
